Refrigerators are expensive. If you’re moving one, you want to make sure you do it right to keep it from getting damaged. 

Here are some great tips for moving your refrigerator safely:

Preparing your refrigerator to move

• Turn it off. 24 to 48 hours before your move, turn off and unplug the refrigerator according to the refrigerator instructions. (Be especially careful if you have a water/ice dispenser – the water will need to be turned off and the water line disconnected.)
• Empty and Clean it. Empty the contents and thoroughly clean and dry the defrosted refrigerator.
• Stop the odor. Leave the doors open for several hours after defrosting to avoid mildew and a musty odor (you might even put an open box of baking soda inside to help with odors).
•  Pack the pieces. Remove shelves, bins and any other loose parts, wrap any glass or fragile pieces with bubble wrap and pack them separately.
• Secure for moving. Tape the doors shut, tape the cords to the back with packing tape and remove the toe board.

Loading your refrigerator

• Use an appliance dolly. It will make moving big appliances much easier. 
• Avoid laying the refrigerator on its side. When the refrigerator is on its side, the oil in the compressor can flow into the cooling lines. Then, when you turn it upright, the oil may not completely drain from the cooling lines and keep the refrigerator from cooling. Not good!
• Wrap it. Wrap the refrigerator in furniture pads to avoid scratches.
• Load it. Your refrigerator and other large appliances should be loaded into the moving trailer or moving container first.
• Secure it. Tie your refrigerator down with moving straps or rope to keep it from shifting in transit. 

More to come about moving other appliances like your washer, dryer and electric or gas range.